Washington, DC – Today, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries and House Democrats held a press event with veterans whose lives are being turned upside down by the Trump administration and House Republicans.

Leader Jeffries: It is with a heavy heart that we gather here today having received the news that our dear colleague and tremendous public servant, the Honorable Sylvester Turner, passed away tragically and unexpectedly. He was a powerful, profound, principled public servant who was beloved in his hometown of Houston. Served his hometown in the state legislature as mayor, and over the last few months as a member of Congress. He was a champion for all that we stand here today to protect. So I thought it be appropriate that we just begin with a brief moment of silence. Thank you.

Last night, Donald Trump delivered one of the most divisive speeches made by a president in American history. Republicans aren’t trying to bring the country together. They are tearing us apart. Republicans aren’t trying to move America forward. They want to turn back the clock. Republicans aren’t interested in improving the economy or making life better for everyday Americans. They want to enact the largest cut to Medicaid in American history and are hurting our veterans. Far-right extremists are desperately trying to jam their reckless budget down the throats of the American people. They want us to step back. House Democrats will continue to fight back. We’re going to fight back in the Congress, in the courts, in the community, in urban America, in rural America, suburban America, small town America, the heartland of America. We’re going to push back aggressively against Donald Trump, his administration and the extreme MAGA Republican agenda until we can end this national nightmare and bring the American dream to life for every single person in this country.

That’s our North Star and it will continue to be our focus. And we must always stand up for our veterans. Those who have worn the uniform to protect and serve our great country. They’ve been there for us, sacrificed for us, shown courage and extraordinary bravery for us. We should always stand with them. Thousands of veterans across the country have been hurt by the extreme reactions of Donald Trump, the Trump administration, Elon Musk and MAGA Republicans. It’s unacceptable. It’s unconscionable. It’s un-American. And there are several veterans here today to tell their stories to the American people about what is happening and the fact that veterans all across this great country are being harmed. Our promise to veterans and this country is that we will always stand with you. We will love and cherish you, and we will fight to make sure that every single veteran in this country is treated with the dignity and respect that you deserve.
 
Full press event can be watched here.

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